The Gentrification Project

“Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.”   

-Jane Jacobs, The Death and Life of Great American Cities 

With the swelling of the world’s population and the advent of megacities, understanding how to construct cities that are sustainable, just, and equitable has never been more important.  Cities confront multiple and often interconnected challenges including gentrification, unsafe housing, pollution, food deserts, and transportation.

Understanding the urban environment is increasingly critical for dealing with contemporary wicked problems. In a series of projects, we explore changing neighborhoods within metropolitan areas as complex ecological systems—each with its own needs and distinct histories.  We specifically focus on the implications of gentrification AND displacement on health, stress, psychological well being, and aging in place for vulnerable residents.  

Fighting Displacement Study

In a mixed-methods project, we explore the experiences of women tenants and advocates resisting residential displacement.  Given the timing of data collection (2020-2021 and during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic), we also examine housing instability and drivers of residential displacement broadly, including evictions, gentrification, and landlord harassment. Our sample currently consists of 80 self-identified Black women actively involved in anti-displacement efforts.

Our Story, Our Voices

Our Story, Our Voices is a study of women (including non-binary, trans, and gender-nonconforming people who identify with womanhood) who identify as Black/African American or African-descended.  The first wave, completed in June 2020, surveyed 945 women about psychological, psychosocial, and behavioral factors – including attitudes towards health, family, work and education, social activities, retirement, and aging.

Health + Activism Study

The Health and Activism Survey (N = 722) explores social activism, political attitudes, and perceived discrimination among younger adults (under age 35).  Respondents range in age from 18-35 years old, including an oversample of traditionally underrepresented groups.